Antonio Di Oronzo, principal of bluarch architecture + interiors + urban planning, has designed the fast casual chain Hello Pasta, which has four locations throughout New York.
The goal of the overall design scheme was to create a warm environment-one that would transcend the expected linear, streamlined look of a fast food restaurant. To that end, the organic wood ceiling is reminiscent of the way pasta was traditionally made by hand when it was left to hang dry on wooden racks. Between the undulated strips are light bulbs hung from exposed black electrical cords. A green accent wall also acts as a branding accent, holding the Hello Pasta logo right below the folding ceiling strips.
Ranging from 600 to 800 square feet of dining space, the restaurants seat about 15 to 25 customers in soft upholstered banquettes and natural wood chairs. Hello Pasta has plans for national expansion.
